Paradigm Shift Hydro Eyes Desert Power Storage in Texas
Published Date: 8/7/2025
Notice
Summary
Paradigm Shift Hydro, LLC wants to build the Last Chance Energy Project, a new pumped storage hydropower facility near Alpine, Texas. This project could change how energy is stored and used in the area, and the public has until September 3, 2025, to share their thoughts or get involved. It’s a big step toward cleaner energy, with potential impacts on local communities and future power costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Project will tap local Igneous Aquifer
If you live or operate in Brewster or Jeff Davis Counties, Texas, the applicant says it would develop groundwater withdrawal wells tapping the Igneous Aquifer for the project’s initial fill and make-up water needs. The project would create two reservoirs holding about 1,250 acre-feet (upper) and 1,875 acre-feet (lower).
Adds ~300 MW pumped storage and transmission
The proposal would build a closed-loop pumped storage hydropower facility near Alpine, Texas, with four turbines of about 75 megawatts each (about 300 MW total) and a 7.5-mile overhead transmission line to an existing AEP substation. The project would include dams, two reservoirs (covering about 50 and 75 acres), long pipelines and other powerhouse structures.
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Key Dates
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